Axle and trans swap ??

[chillman88]

Hey all,

Long story short, I have a 4x4 frame (79) to put under my 86 C20. A buddy of mine has a 71 K20 that has been sitting and I can get it for scrap price.


What would it take to replace the SM465 in my C20 with the TH400 from the 71? I'm asking more about kickdown and dash stuff, I have done the reverse before on my 97 and put in a manual so I have a basic understanding of what I will need.

I'm told the Dana 44 from the 71 should bolt right up to the 4x4 frame I have, can anyone confirm this?

I don't necessarily want an auto but if I can do the swap cheaply I can save up for a 5spd swap down the road.

Unless anyone has an SM465 with a transfer case they want to trade?

Thanks in advance!
--Chris